The challenge of managing electronic records in developing countries

Abstract

Purpose Electronic records management is new to most records officers and archivists in contemporary sub Saharan Africa. It transformed the traditional mode of recordkeeping and brought with it some constraints which records managers have to contend with if they are to remain relevant in the information society. This paper aims to examine the background of these problems as well as the strategies for e‐records management in Africa. Design/methodology/approach Relevant literature on archives development in Africa, electronic records, information technology, and records management were reviewed and the author gathered much insight on electronic records management in a digital environment. These were applied to fortify the author's arguments. Findings The study shows that the major problems of e‐records management in Africa are administrative and the technically induced challenge and the benefits of managing hybrid records in Africa can only be realized if the appropriate infrastructures, workable legislation and regulatory frameworks, adequate finance, and competent ICT personnel are available. Practical implications Introducing technological solutions to e‐records management in Africa without first addressing those necessary preconditions would increase the vulnerability of public records and jeopardize public services in the continent. Originality/value The study highlights the potential problems and provides guidelines which information professionals and stakeholders in developing countries should adopt for successful implementation of e‐records management.

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